Breakfast can be confusing — especially if you grew up eating Cookie Crisp and SunnyD (whoa, nostalgia). What constitutes a healthy, complete breakfast? How can you make your breakfast faster but still nutritious? Should you eat carbs? What about fat? How do you eat healthy on the go? Fortunately, we have tons of tips and information on nutrition, portions, timing, and hacks to streamline the process.
We know that watching portions can help with weight loss — and the opposite, that if we go overboard, we're prone to weight gain. Try using smaller plates and bowls with things like granola and cereal. With that said, you should make sure you're eating enough, too. Eating too little for breakfast ——like "I'm just going to have a banana" — can actually be detrimental, too. Breakfast is a meal, not a snack! If you want to fuel your body properly, make sure you're eating enough.
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Fiber + Protein + Fat
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The key to staying full? Protein, fat, and fiber. Celeb trainer Harley Pasternak told POPSUGAR this is "the Holy Trinity of satiety." High-fiber, high-protein breakfasts are essential to not getting hungry immediately after you chow down. Need some ideas? Start with these healthy breakfast recipes.
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Limit Sugar
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While breakfast is usually known for syrupy pancakes, crunchy sweet cereals, and stuffed french toast, it's a good idea to limit your sugar to avoid a crash. Yes, doughnuts are delicious, but no, they're not a complete breakfast (and they won't keep you full).
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Working Out? Carb Up Ahead of Time
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Our body's main source of fuel is carbohydrates, and you definitely need them before you exercise (unless you've been prescribed a more ketogenic-style diet by your doctor or dietitian!). Fuel up with healthy carbohydrates one hour before your sweat sesh for optimum energy levels and a safe workout.
Even the healthiest options at fast-food restaurants can be processed and riddled with hidden ingredients and added sugars. When you're on the go, opt for whole ingredient foods or piece something together yourself (like Icelandic or Greek yogurt, a hard boiled egg, and a piece of fruit).
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Make It at Home
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Like we said, it can be tough when you're on the go, but your best bet is to make your breakfast at home where you can control portions, ingredients, and preparation. Even if you're pressed for time, you can whip up a fiber-filled smoothie in seconds and take it with you on your commute.
Smoothies aren't the only things you can grab 'n go (though they are a delicious option). Make yourself chia pudding, overnight oats, or even overnight quinoa in mason jars so you can make your own take-out — healthy style.
Smoothies are already fast, but you can make them even faster and save yourself more time by making these nifty packs with frozen fruit and veggies that are already portioned, sorted, and ready to go — with instructions on what to add, too!
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Eggs, Eggs, Eggs
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They're basically the perfect food. They've got healthy protein and fats to keep you sated for a long day, and you can do so much with them — there are countless versatile egg recipes to choose from for a healthy breakfast. Make sure they're pasture-raised!
Flavored yogurts can go crazy with calories, but there are ways to make your favorite yogurt even healthier without compromising flavor. Add flax seeds or chia seeds for fiber, and mash up some fruit to give it natural sweetness. Don't forget anti-inflammatory and flavorful spices like cinnamon and turmeric!